Bella had had the worst day. She was ready to be home. As she drove, she pinched the bridge of her nose to try and relieve the pressure in her head. Edward had told her vampires didn't get headaches, but she begged to differ. She had a sharp pounding pain behind her right eye.
As she pulled into the cottage's driveway, she noticed the house was dark. Edward should be home. She had texted him when she left the office, and he replied he would be waiting on her. Even if he left to go to the big house, he always left the porch light on if she came home after dark.
Bella let herself into the house and went to the kitchen. They had a spot where they left mail and notes for each other. Nothing was there. Puzzled, she stood there for a moment, trying not to panic that something so urgent had happened that Edward hadn't even left a note.
"There you are, Mrs. Cullen." Bella turned around at the sound of Edward's voice. He was leaning in the door frame that led out to the backyard. "Care to join me on the back porch?" He reached out his hand and walked toward her.
Bella sighed. "Yes, I would love to!" He wrapped her in a hug. "I have had the worst day." She said with her head buried in his chest.
"I know, babe." He kissed the top of her head and squeezed her a little tighter. He then led her outside. The entire backyard glowed with a soft light. Hundreds of Christmas lights and paper lanterns hung from every tree limb and all along the fence that surrounded their yard. Edward had also laid a blanket on the grass and put out throw pillows for them to lay on.
Bella stood in awe, looking around the yard. She slid her arm around his waist, pulling him to her. "It's… perfect." Her breath caught in her throat.
"I'm glad you like it." He gently led her to the blanket, Edward helped her lay down, and she kicked off her shoes. He laid down next to her and put his arm under her head. Bella cuddled up close, putting her head on his chest.
"Thank you for this. It is just what I needed." Bella raised her head to kiss his lips, "I love you so much." They stayed in each other's arms until the sun came up the next morning.